Analysis: Clash of old and new values — is Thailand heading for a big change?

Students organise a flash mob at King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok on July 30. One protester holds a banner that reads, 'stop intimidating people', and wears a face mask that says, 'dissolve Parliament'. — The Nation/Asia News Network

By expressing their opinion about the role of the monarchy, the recent protests have touched on a sensitive issue, which has always been a taboo in Thai society. There may not be a consensus among protesters, but many are using code-language for communication and some are disguising their messages with subtlety on their protest banners, to voice critical views about the monarchy.

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and Army chief General Apirat Kongsompong have expressed concern about the dangers of slandering the highest institution.The military-backed government led by Prayut after the 2014 coup launched 12 core values for Thais, largely instructing people to follow the rule of authority, uphold traditional institutions and what is perceived as Thai culture. Liberals had criticised the 12 values as a tool of the military to brainwash people or an attempt to drag Thai society into the deep past.